Scammers often try to exploit confusion in the aftermath of disasters. Some may pose as federal officials to try to trick you out of personal information or cash. If someone approaches you claiming to be a FEMA representative, study their ID carefully. Remember, legitimate FEMA workers will not ask for your Social Security number or other personal or financial information, although you’ll need to provide information if you decide to fill out an application for assistance. In addition, FEMA officials will never seek payment of any kind and they do not recommend or endorse any debris removal, clean-up, or construction contractors. If you have a question, contact FEMA directly by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov. You can also use m.fema.gov , a new FEMA app that is free for Android mobile users. FEMA apps for other mobile devices are in development and will be released soon. (Note: Avoid the app named “FEMA Mobile” which is not the official FEMA app and may be scamware.) If you spot a scam, report it to the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or filing a complaint online at www.ncdoj.gov. This message brought to you on behalf of North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper
